Statistics Tracking, Comparing and Game Improvement
Living in a world of constant connection and communication, social networking sites and applications have taken over the internet trends. Countless studies are performed annually to show just how much time is wasted on Facebook and Twitter instead of being used productively at work, school or face-to-face social events.
Back in January of 2013, an application was introduced called RipNet. They are attempting to turn social networking into productive time, in this case for lacrosse.
It is accessible on any smart device: phones, tablets or computers, and is being called ‘the Facebook and Twitter of lacrosse.’
This app connects players, coaches and schools nationwide under lacrosse. Players can upload, update, and keep track of their stats and performance. RipNet even makes suggestions and practice ideas for players once it compiles enough information.
An app user can view other players’ profiles and stats. Teammates, both current and alumni, can stay connected through the app, and teams/schools can interconnect with RipNet’s assistance.
I was mulling around through the Google Play Store on my Droid Bionic when I stumbled across the application. It is by far the most advanced and encompassing networking software I have seen in a long time (for what it’s offering).
Want to get recruited? Ever consider how many highlight videos and NCAA applications coaches view in an offseason? Just like in a workplace where employees can put in a good word for an applicant, same goes for sports teams and its players. With RipNet, a high school student can upload their highlight videos and information; then, a college player could come across it while networking and suggest the player to their coach.
Is that outlined as a feature of the app? No. Is it a feasible possibility considering the way our world works? Definitely.
The only downside I see to the app is that it is targeted for current players. All the features outside status updates, profiles, and comments are related to updating statistics and performance markers. This could be a byproduct of the app wanting to market to current players. I am a post-college graduate, so aside from making connections and watching others’ performances, there is not much for me to do.
There are features on it that are not available on Facebook for those sports fans and players looking to connect via the medicine game. And because there are fewer users of the app currently, it moves quite quickly and smoothly without glitches or pauses.
Game-by-game, players can update goals, shots, and assists. This also limits the market of the app to offensive players. There are no features for causing turnovers, checks or defensive tracking.
Once those numeric figures are entered, a player can even look at a cage with ‘shadow goalie,’ and pinpoint the locations where they made and missed shots.
With all the information recorded, the application has an Analytics feature. This allows the players to view different statistics and see where they need to work on their game. They can compare their performance to other players’ on the network, track teams, etc.
Defensemen and goalies can look at this application for an upcoming opponent to see where shots are being made and missed. Just like a baseball pitcher studies batting ranges of opponents to know weak areas, a goalie and defense can learn/study similarly with RipNet.
This is a big advancement in lacrosse technology and game-tracking-performance. I believe with more exposure and use, this type of tracking application could easily take off. Coaches should be suggesting it to their players, because when they do not know where they need improvement, even in comparison to other players, this app answers all their questions.
This app is synced between devices, as well. If you are someone who feels a phone screen is too tiny, you can upload your information on the phone and later view it on your computer!
As my high school coach once said, you are only as good as your competition. The more players and teams that are added to the application and network, the more players will benefit from it.
Visit http://rip.net/ for more information on the app, its features, and downloading options.
